Issa Baluch, a thirty-four year veteran of the freight forwarding industry, is credited with helping pioneer the thriving sea-air combined transport business that operates in the United Arab Emirates. Mr. Baluch holds a Master’s degree in Business from the University of Hull (UK) and has also completed numerous aviation, transport, and freight forwarding programs. He started his career as a tally clerk at Gulf Agency Company in Dubai in 1973, rising to the positions of shipping supervisor, deputy manager of the freight division, and general manager of freight forwarding. In 1989 Mr. Baluch founded the Swift Group in Dubai. Today it is among the top freight logistics providers in the UAE, with 45 offices in 19 countries throughout Africa, the Middle East and Asia.

Aside from being Chairman and CEO of the Swift Group, Mr. Baluch also served as President of FIATA (International Federation of Freight Forwarders’ Associations) from 2003 to 2005, and remained as member of the Presidency until September 2007. Now, he serves to be an Honorary Member of the Board. He also serves on the Board of Directors of The International Air Cargo Association (TIACA), the Advisory Board of Dubai Logistics City, and the Marketing Committee for the Dubai Flower Centre.

In April 2006, he received the Lifetime Achievement Award from Air Cargo News.